Global Business

The shut-down of the U.S. Export-Import Bank is hurting some global businesses and, as a result, some CEOs badly want to see Congressional reauthorization soon. But the conservative Republicans in the House of Representatives who want to permanently pull the plug on the Ex-Im Bank insist that its demise will be better for free-market capitalism overall.

The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact may or may not be endangered by wrangling in the U.S. Congress, depending on which pundit is doing the talking. And there will be dire consequences if it is passed – or if it isn’t passed – again depending on your point of view.

Over the last four decades, Asia has been a primary engine of global economic growth. This trumpets a call to action for all global CEOs: whether your company presently does business in Asia or not, you’d be well served to become culturally in tune with your Asian counterparts. Only then, as prime opportunities come knocking, can you build the most prosperous and profitable business relationships.

Many mid-market business owners plan to expand globally, but feel constrained, saying they lack the tools to manage a global workplace. According to a recent ADP study, two in five midsized business owners say globalization has affected how they conduct their day-to-day business.

Global expansion is a growing driver for many middle-market companies, according to “Business Without Borders: International growth at mid-cap companies,” a report released this month by Mergermarket Ltd. on behalf of Mazars Group.

By the time direct sales powerhouse Amway decided to expand into China in 1995, the company had an impressive track record at breaking into foreign markets. In fact, 50 percent of its revenues had been coming from overseas sales since the mid-’80s.